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You just received a Bonsai tree as a gift. Bonsai are living works of art that are great for beginners because they're easy to care for. Upon receipt, simply open the box and take your tree out. Each Bonsai tree comes with a care card which provides detailed instructions on how to care for your Bonsai. A humidity tray and pebbles are also in each treatment. Place the pebbles in the tray and your Bonsai on top of the pebbles. Humidity trays allow you to thoroughly water your Bonsai without making a mess. Make sure you thoroughly water your tree as soon as you receive it.
There are two categories of Bonsai trees, indoor and outdoor. Each category requires slightly different care so it's important to know kind of tree you've received. A tag attached to your tree will have that information as well as the tree's variety and some details about basic care.
All indoor Bonsai like as much direct sunlight as possible. Ficus, Jade and Hawaiian Umbrella's however are adaptable to lower light conditions. Indoor Bonsai should be kept at temperatures above 50 degrees and should never freeze. During the warm summer months, indoor Bonsai should be put outside to get natural sunlight, air circulation and rain water. Outdoor Bonsai need to experience seasonal changes and should only be brought inside for 4 to 5 days at a time. Conifers like Pine and Juniper need full sun. Deciduous Bonsai like Maples and Elms need morning sun and afternoon shade. Outdoor trees need to go dormant in the winter months and shouldn't be protected unless temperatures are below 25 degrees.
Here are some general care tips for indoor and outdoor Bonsai.
Watering is the most critical component of Bonsai care. It's important to never allow your Bonsai to dry out completely. Your care card will have watering suggestions for your variety of Bonsai. A small watering can is helpful for indoor trees and a hose with a jut spray attachment works well outdoors. A soft thorough watering that doesn't disturb the soil is ideal. Sunlight requirements vary from tree to tree. Check the tree tag about ideal light conditions for your variety of Bonsai. Good air circulation and sunlight help Bonsai thrive. Place your tree where there is occasional air movement and direct sunlight. Keep your Bonsai away from heating vents, drafts and fumes. Groom your Bonsai by removing dead leaves and snipping off any unsightly branches. Should you decide you'd like to actively shape your Bonsai as it grows guidelines are provided in the care instructions sent with each tree. With minimal care your new Bonsai will provide joy for years to come.